How to Get the Most From Votive Candles

Votive candles can create ambiance as well as scent a room, but how you burn them can drastically shorten their life, especially with soy votive candles. Follow these simple steps to prolong the life of the candles.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Extend the Life of Votive Candles

1. 
   Trim Candle

   Before the first burning, trim the wick to 1/4 inch.

2. 
   Snug Fit

   Next you have to decide what container to use. A common mistake is to choose a candle holder that is too large. To get the most from you candle, make sure the holder is a snug fit.

3. Light the candle. Allow the candle to burn until the melt pool reaches the edges of the candle holder. If you extinguish the candle before the fullest melt pool is achieved, it is unlikely it will use all the wax.

4. After 4 hours, extinguish candle. When you light the candle the next time, trim the wick to 1/4 inch again.

Tips & Warnings

• Good candles will not "tunnel" in the proper environment. Tunneling is when a candle doesn't melt to the edges of the candle holder.
• Even good candles can tunnel if the candle is left in a drafty area. Keep candles away from breezes and fans.
• NEVER leave candles unattended. Make sure you have the candles on a firm surface, away from pets and children and flammable products.